A viral video of Chonkers lounging at Pier 39 has received over 2,600 Instagram likes as of April 27, with the Marine Mammal Center monitoring him since March 13.
Chonkers, estimated to weigh 1,500–2,000 pounds and older than five, has attracted crowds and widespread social media attention for his size and rare presence among smaller California sea lions.
Steller sea lions are uncommon in San Francisco, typically living further north, and the eastern stock—like Chonkers—was removed from the endangered species list in 2013, highlighting his significance to visitors and wildlife enthusiasts.
What became of the juvenile sea lion that originally accompanied Chonkers to San Francisco?
Is Chonkers' fame a cute distraction or a warning about changing marine ecosystems?
Can Pier 39's docks survive the 'Chonkers effect' from future 2,000-pound visitors?
How do we balance Chonkers' stardom with the potential risks of human-wildlife interaction?
If his species is a conservation success, why is it now considered 'nearly threatened'?